SDGFP Zebra Mussel
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department, in cooperation with state and federal partners and local stakeholders, plan to retreat Smishek Lake in May and June to eradicate the remaining zebra mussel population in the lake.
“This spring, at ice-out, we surveyed the mussel population in Smishek Lake to evaluate the effectiveness of last fall’s treatment” said Ben Holen, department aquatic nuisance species coordinator. “While the treatment significantly suppressed the zebra mussel population at the lake, live mussels capable of reproduction remain. This population poses a threat to the downstream waters of Lake Sakakawea and other lakes in the northwestern part of North Dakota, so we are doing what we can to achieve a full eradication.”
When weather conditions are suitable, department staff will apply an EPA-registered copper-based mollusicide called EarthTecQZ. Three treatment applications are anticipated starting mid-May and continuing into June. The lake will remain open for public recreation, but the ramp will be signed and closed on application days.
Additional information will be provided on the North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s ANS webpage gf.nd.gov/ans.
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